One of the most frequent questions I get is how Seton Hall Law handles law school applications with multiple LSAT or GRE scores. Applicants often want to know:

• Should I retake the test?
• Should I submit an addendum to explain a score increase or drop?
• Which test should I choose in the first place?

There are a lot of things to break down, and I'll start with the answer to the threshold question.

LSAT or GRE?

Seton Hall Law, along with many other schools, accepts both the LSAT and GRE. But here is what matters: choose one test and stick with it.

Why? While it used to be an ABA reporting requirement to prioritize the LSAT when both scores were submitted, schools now have more discretion in choosing which test to report. That said, the LSAT is specifically designed for legal education, and if it is part of your application, it typically carries more weight in admissions and scholarship evaluations, even if a GRE score is also present.

Should you take another LSAT?

Retaking a standardized test is a serious decision. A higher score can make a meaningful difference, but preparing for the test again takes time, effort, and often money. No one can make that decision for you, but here are some common situations where retesting may be worth it:

• Did you actually prepare for the TEST?
  • If your first attempt was “cold” (minimal prep, no timed practice exams, no test strategy), your score probably is not reflective of your true potential. If you are willing to invest in better preparation (self-study, tutoring, or a prep course), you might see real improvement.
• Did "life" happen right before the TEST?
  • Sometimes it is not about preparation – it is about circumstances. Illness, family emergencies, remote proctoring issues, or noisy test centers (yes, even marching band practice outside the window) can all derail test performance. If something outside your control impacted your ability to focus, it might be worth retaking under better conditions.
• Did you learn something after taking the test?
  • Some students realize, after their first attempt, that they underestimated the test or misunderstood the question types. If your score surprised you and you know how to adjust your study plan, a second attempt could be a strategic move.
    
    

What Happens If You Retake?

Seton Hall Law handles multiple scores for each test differently.

For the LSAT, Seton Hall Law considers only your highest score. While this is common among most law schools, you should still check with each school to confirm their policies, (especially when it comes to scholarships, where some schools may take an average).

For the GRE, Seton Hall Law superscores. That means we look at your highest section scores across all test administrations to calculate your best overall performance. This can work to your advantage, especially if your verbal and quantitative scores peaked on different testing dates. Be aware that GRE superscoring is not universally practiced – other schools may evaluate only the most recent test or consider each full test separately.

Should You Include An Addendum?

An addendum is not necessary to explain small changes in score, as minor variations are expected. However, if your score increased or decreased significantly, it is a good idea to explain why. We are looking for a clear explanation of why the lower score may not reflect your ability and/or evidence that the higher score is a better indicator of your potential.

Addenda do not need to be emotional or dramatic; they should be brief, factual, and focused. For example:

“I was recovering from illness during my first LSAT attempt, which impacted my performance. After recovery and further preparation, I retook the test and earned a score more reflective of my ability.”

Without an explanation, admissions committees may be left wondering which score is the better reflection of your abilities, or assume the higher one was a fluke. A short statement clears that up.

Final Thoughts

Multiple test scores are not a red flag. What matters is how you interpret them, prepare for future attempts, and, if necessary, explain the context behind them.

The most important thing you can do is be honest with yourself: Was your test performance typical of your academic ability? Do you have room to grow with further preparation? And does your highest score reflect what you are truly capable of?

As always, check with each school on their policies around multiple scores and addenda, and trust that your application is more than just a number.

Good luck with your test prep and applications – we are rooting for you!

photo credit: no more tests 05.30.09 [150] via photopin (license)